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Our American Hero.

Dear faithful students,
Yesterday we lost a dear friend, a devoted husband, a loving father, a true hero to us all.

Jack died of respiratory failure due to pneumonia Sunday afternoon at his home in Morro Bay on California’s Central Coast. He was surrounded with his loving family, his wife Elaine of 51 years, daughter Yvonne and sons Danny and Jon.

Jack has left the world a happy, healthier, more fit place, and his legacy will live on forever.

Remember as Jack would say:
“Anything in Life is Possible, if YOU Make it Happen!” ~Jack LaLanne

437 Responses to “Our American Hero.”

Bravooo!!!! mister Lalanne, what an amazing person. Ive been working out and acomplishing my goals, its people like Jack that make anything they put their minds to possible. Thank you Jack for leading by example, an extraordinary life and lifestyle. He really knew how to live. My best wishes to the Lalanne family, may god bless you all.

It was with great sorrow I heard of the passing of Jack. My mom and Jack were born the same year. My mom passed away almost 5 years ago but I can remember as a kid, heading out the door to school, my mom would say it is time for Jack and she would grab her chair to get ready to exercise. When I heard of Jack’s passing I immediately thought of those days and the enjoyment she got watching the show every morning. I send my deep sympathy to Elaine, the family and the staff of BeFit Enerprises.

My deepest sympathy to family and friends. I worked out with Jack and Happy every day of my early married years. 1960′s and beyond. Thanks for all the inspiration and I continue to work out. Age 60. I will miss you but will never forget all you taught me!

Jack, we will miss you dearly. You were decades ahead of your time. You made a difference in many peoples lives for the better and there is no finer legacy than that for anyone. God bless you and your family.

Hello Elaine and the family,
We wish to send our condolences to you and all the family members. My wife and I will always remember Jack and what he taught us with TV and books. We were little kids exercising as we watched Jack’s TV show and mom had the Glamour stretcher. The reruns of Jack’s show are here to help us every day and to show us how to eat right. I met Jack at my local mall back in the late 80′s and what a great show it was. Remember our friend Jack Lalanne will want all of us to keep up our workouts and don’t eat that donut. God Bless and like Jack said, “Be-Fit”

Oh my word… When I heard this on the news on Monday morning I almost cried. I had recently read an article on my trip to London and Paris about Jack. I had listened to his song “Chicken Fat” in music class.I want to cry even now. Jack was so inspiring. He was an amazing man. I have started to become healthier lately. I’ve been doing push – ups, sit – ups, and jumping “Jacks” randomly in the house. Even squats! I prayed for Jack, his friends, and family that fateful Monday I heard the news. He always said, “I can’t die. It’ll ruin my image.” But now I look up to him more than ever. I intend to make the world a healthier place. At least by starting with me. I’ll take on more sports, do the Wii Fit Plus, and spontaniously break out in exercise moves. I will miss Jack even though I didn’t know him. I wish I could have. I missed getting a signed cookbook by a single day, too. Oh well… Jack WILL be missed. He is an influence to ALL people young or small, tall or short, boy or girl, EVERY WHERE.

Jack you have been my hero for a very long time… In fact I believe it was you and the first Jack LaLanne Health Spa that started my inspiration when I was 16 years old. I continue to honor you through my own diet and exercise program and work to inspire others through my website and blog and your teachings. You will live on forever!!!

The LaLanne Family has all my sympathy. It is important to remind ourselves that everyone we ever knew and ever saw will join Jack at one point or the other. Maybe I will get my chance in the future to thank Jack for all that he has done when he was here with us. I know he is looking down smiling at all of us. Jack, I hope I will be allowed to see you when I get up there. You was a real inspiration to me and my entire family.
Steve

Such a sad shock to hear about Jack on Sunday. I am still sadden days later to know Jack went home. I have told my husband for years that if Jack outlived Elaine, sorry Bob – I was heading to California! As a little girl, I was struck by the handsome man working his big muscles on tv with his white German Shepard. I own Jack’s juicer and use it sometimes twice a day. The grandkids really like fresh juice too! (We have a great compose bin) The world misses you Jack, don’t worry about your reputation….. I thank God for all you gave to so many of us.

My deepest condolences to the LaLanne family. Jack has inspired me since I was a kid. Whenever someone complains to me about not wanting to workout or exercise or eat well (in their 50s/60s+), I always have tried to use Jack as an inspiration: “Well, Jack LaLanne was pulling boats in the water on his 60th birthday…” I loved watching his commercials in recent years. Rest in peace Jack.

Jack will be missed by many. I grow up with my mom exercising with him in the am, she would have us all exercise with her to keep us close. To this day I still exercise daily. Mr. LaLanne taught, lived and inspired millions in how to stay health. My heart goes out to all his friends and family. I still have the first Jack LaLanne Rebounder I bought 20 some years ago, was looking to buy another, but cannot find one like mine; comes in one read piece where you just have to put the legs on, others have to open and pin open, just don’t feel safe jumping on such. Bless our new angel.

To me, Jack is a testament to the power of a committed choice. In his early years, he chose to go in a whole new direction, and the new possibilities and vitality that went with that choice gave power to his life.

What new choice and possibility might you and I make a decision about that would give renewed power to our lives?

Other than that question to readers, I offer my gratitude to Jack for his commitment to make a positive difference in the lives of so many people, and a big hug to his wife.

I Live in Santa Cruz, CA. The Funeral that will take place in L.A., will it be open to the public? I understand if Elaine and family want it to be private but I and the rest of america would sure would like to give our respects. PLEASE let me know if and where the funeral will be. I have been looking online but haven’t seen it posted.

Even at the age of 96 Jack left us too soon. He will however live on in our hearts and in media. His many offerings in print and electrinic media will sustain his presence in our lives. In fact I’ve just recently ordered 2 more of his wonerful TV show DVDs. Seeing Jack on my television at 4:30AM each day is a continuing inspiration to me.
Let me extend my fondest wishes for a healthy and bright future for the Lalanne loved ones. Be well

My deepest condolences to the LaLanne family. An icon and an inspiration to all will be greatly missed. Heaven’s family will be in great shape with Jack to lead the way. God Bless You Jack, I will miss your positive leadership.

Jack’s energy and vitality will live on in all those he touched & inspired. For the past few years, I’ve been promoting the idea of designating September 26 (Jack’s birthday) “Jack LaLanne Day”. Let’s make this date a National Day of Health when we all follow Jack’s lead in demonstrating our commitment to better physical fitness and nutrition by doing something positive, and possibly challenging, to improve our personal health. Learn more at http://JLLDay.org

Im a lot younger than most of Jacks fans (32) but when i heard the news of his passing i gasped in disbelief. Then i got sad. What a great role model he was. A lot of people don’t realize it wasnt his desire to live forever, but to be able to LIVE while he was alive, and that he did. Over the past few days i’ve watched every interview i could find about jack. I was complete in awe of his love for life and his wife Elaine. I hope she continues Jacks mission. Im sure people could learn a lot from her. My sympathies go out to all who loved him.

Jack was always one of my favorite people who I admired from afar but didn’t know. He made a difference in the world. He was an outstanding husband, father, and friend. I remember watching his show when I was a child and he really helped me form my ideas about health and fitness.I always admired that he wasn’t afraid to show his love for his mother, his country and God.
With deepest sympathies to Elaine and family-May your beloved Jack rest in peace.

The greatest testament to Jack LaLanne’s charisma, visionary endeavors and motivational talent is the uniformly appreciative and respectful tenor of all the messages which appear on this site and elsewhere on the web. In my numerous meetings with Jack and Elaine over the years, at health conventions, in his European Health Spas and once at his home in Hollywood Hills many years ago, I always found him to be genuine, unselfish, positive and supportive.

When I first met him at the grand opening of his first spa in San Diego in the early 1970,s he took me aside, sat me down, pounded his fist on the table and changed my life forever. Because of his instrumental, initial influence, I stayed in the fitness and exercise physiology industries for more than 30 years and always tried to honor and replicate his outstanding, instructional and motivational techniques but, alas, there is only one Jack LaLanne and the standard he set will likely never be equalled.

Jack was the quintessential American icon and, though he displayed consistent confidence and conviction, he was never egocentric or lacking in humility. He led all his followers to a better, happier, healthier life by example and proved that it is never too late to get in shape. He was truly one of my few life mentors.

Jack LaLanne’s passing, as the great poet John Donne observed several hundred years ago, diminishes all of us because we are all a part of mankind. His legacy of giving and caring for others will be remembered forever.

Mr. Jack, I will miss you dearly. I remembered exercising with you when I was 3 years old. Me & my Mom exercised with you while you were on TV. Even though when I was the tender age of 3, only a few things are remembered, and I remember this clearly. Me and my chair. Although I remember only 1 day of exercise, I have never forgotten after all of these years. You are the reason me & my Mom made exercise and eating healthy a part of our lives till this day. Miss Elaine, may GOD’S gentle comfort tenderly embrace you, bringing peace to your heart.

What a amazing Man Jack La Lanne was and still will always be. I grew up watching him & Elaine on TV. You both were my inspiration. I was fortunate to work in one of his health clubs back in the 80′s that is where I got my start. I was only 18 and now at 47 I can still say I am as even more active now. Yes your health is your wealth. Thank You so much Jack & Elaine for sharing your thoughts & beliefs. We gotta move it or lose it. God Bless Jack & his family he will always be remembered.

Jack Lalanne was one of the greatest men who ever lived. His story and his enthusiasm and positive attitude inspired countless people, including me, and will continue to do so for many years. I often think about him when I exercise.

I first saw Jack La Lanne on TV when I was five years old. He was the father I didn’t have, and my mentor for life. My mother just passed away on Jan 8, 2011, and then Jack on January 24th. These were two great American heroes of mine and I will miss them dearly and pray to them often. Thank you for making my life all the better for your love and influence. My heart and prayers goes out to Elaine LaLanne and the children and family.
Love, Pattie Murphy

I am praying that the comfort of our Lord Jesus Christ will be felt by your family. I have been inspired to better health with the help of Jack for the glory of God! I intend to continue to use the Trimnastics I have learned from Jack in my daily life. Thank you, Jack!

To Elaine and the rest of the LaLanne family,
My sincerest condolences on your loss. A pioneer, a truly inspirational individual, I always have enjoyed seeing Jack on television. His personality grandios and his outlook and humor so infectious he truly has made a difference in this world and he will be sorely missed. I hope that people can reflect upon his life and always remember how much he has done for all of us and continue his movement of living. I know I will. Thank you Jack!

I remember watching Jack’s TV show as a child and doing the exercises with him. As I got older life consumed me, hectic schedule took over, and I stopped exercising. I am now getting back on track with Jack TV again. He has proved the simplest movements work the best and his longevity in life is my inspiration to getting back fit again! He will be greatly missed and thank you Elaine and family for sharing him with us.

Jack showed us how to eat right and exercise. Practiced what he preached. Age 96 and never got dementia, diabetes, heart disease, etc. etc. Think about it.You don’t need to end up in the nursing home.Thanks to Jack for inspiring me with all his sayings, which stay in my head always. Sorry you lost your partner, Elaine. By the way, Elaine’s book, Fitness after 50 , has helped me, too!

Condolensces to the family of Jack LaLanne.
WHAT AN INFLUENCE THIS MAN HAD ON A POPULATION.
He ran quite a distance in this fitness relay and nnow passes the baton to the next man to carry the next leg of the fitness race.
Jack can never be eulogized properly, but I will remember his LaLanne -isms:
1- dont eat anything with white flour or white sugar.
2- if man makes eat, don’t eat it.
3- FAT, stands for fatal, awful, terrible.
Jack, “Now here’s my wish for you…. May the GOOD Lord bless and keep you too.” Goodbye my friend, au revoir.
Andy Echenadia

I heard about this right before the news went worldwide. Personally, I am truly saddened by this loss. My wife and I often watch a TV series titled “Beyond and Back” which talks about people’s experience having passed and came back. Although I never knew Jack and never met him I can’t believe that he hasn’t gone to that good place. I am overwhelmed with grief at his passing and am thankful that I was able to be motivated/inspired by someone with such a strong spirit and such true charisma. I hope that Elaine is able to be surrounded by those who love her. God bless all of you and thank you for spreading such a positive message in a world that makes it hard to do just that.

Jack Lalanne is my inspiration!!! For years I have been telling everyone I know about him. He lost his dad at a young age and I lost my mom and other family members at young ages. My uncle passed away from a heart attack at 37.

Thank God for Jack Lalanne and his committment to eating right no matter what and exercising. A good role model does what is right all the time no matter what.

We need better role models out there. Jack Lalanne was right. Many American kids are getting more and more obese because they are choosing fancy processed junk foods instead of apples, oranges, and bananas. According to Dr. Mitra Ray “plant foods” have over 26,000 nutrients in them. Junk foods have close to zero nutrients.

Jack was right. Health care costs will bankrupt US if we don’t start following his example…starting with the parents.

Be a good role model. The most important person on the planet is “YOU”!!!

To the LaLanne Family:
I am so sorry for your loss. I grew up watching Jack’s show & exercising along with my mother. He was such an inspiration to me. He was such a role model for health & fitness. He truely showed what living a healthy lifestyle can do for you. He didn’t only teach it, he lived it. I work in a hospital and see most people in their 80′s have many memory problems & major medical problems. It was so inspiring to see Jack live such a long healthy life without those medical problems that plague the majority of older Americans. His life was a testimony to healthful living and that we truely are what we eat and that exercise will keep us young. He will truely be missed. RIP Jack.

Funny how I speak to other people about Exercise and Health in our weight loss clinic
I cant help it I SOUND LIKE JACK WITH THE PEP TALKING
HEALTY APPROACH HE GAVE TO ME AS A YOUNG BOY
WE ALL CAN CARRY THIS FORWARD, WE HAVE TO LOVE OURSELVES
JUST AS WE SAW THE WAY JACK PORTRAYED HIMSELF

For the millions of people who knew Jack through his inspiring television programs, he was an inspirational icon, a fitness guru and a life motivator. He used to say he can’t afford to die and that it would ruin his image, but then again Jack is human and even though he passed on, he had left behind a legacy of knowledge, fans and followers all over the world. R.I.P Jack La Lanne, you’ve done well and lived life to the fullest.